MalaysianUpdates

Tag: #FinancialInclusion

  • The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    The PayNet Fintech Hub Fuels the Next Phase of Malaysia’s Ecosystem Growth

    Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) is accelerating the growth of Malaysia’s fintech ecosystem through the PayNet Fintech Hub, a structured, impact-driven initiative designed to help local fintech startups build, test and scale innovative solutions. Launched in May 2025, the Hub has strengthened the visibility of Malaysian fintechs both locally and internationally by providing direct access to industry partners, capital support and hands-on mentorship, positioning it as a key enabler of sustainable fintech growth in the country.

    In less than a year, the PayNet Fintech Hub has delivered measurable impact to 50 fintech startups, supported by an extensive network of 50 ecosystem partners spanning banking, technology, investment and shared services. Collectively, participating fintechs have received more than RM5 million in value-added support, including RM3 million in cloud credits and over 450 hours of mentorship. These startups have also raised more than US$1 million in funding, with solutions that have the potential to benefit over eight million underserved Malaysians and approximately 800,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

    According to PayNet Chief Marketing Officer Gary Yeoh, the Hub is designed to translate innovation into real-world outcomes. Through proof-of-concepts developed alongside industry partners, fintech solutions are already addressing everyday financial challenges, from smart contracts that improve trust and operational efficiency, to cashback programmes on essential items and buy now, pay later services tailored for convenience stores. These initiatives reflect the Hub’s focus on advancing financial inclusion for MSMEs while enhancing access to practical, consumer-centric financial services.

    The Hub has facilitated 11 collaboration opportunities involving 26 fintechs, including seven fintech-corporate pilots and four fintech-to-fintech partnerships. Among the initiatives supported through the RM1 million PayNet Credit Fund are Buzz’s optical character recognition-powered cashback engine developed with Touch ’n Go, as well as Fluid’s payment digitalization project in collaboration with a global fast-moving consumer goods brand. These pilots underscore the Hub’s role as a bridge between innovation and industry adoption.

    Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the Hub’s strategy. Its flagship TGI Friday (TGIF) event held in October 2025 attracted more than 200 founders, investors, financial institutions and ecosystem partners, highlighting the growing momentum and collaborative spirit within Malaysia’s fintech landscape. Such platforms have reinforced the Hub’s position as a convenor for meaningful dialogue, partnership-building and ecosystem development.

    Operating across three core tracks—Community, Catalyst and Collaboration—the PayNet Fintech Hub supports startups at different stages of growth, from scaling and global exposure to real-world deployment. A major milestone in its evolution is the launch of the Catalyst phase on 1 December 2025 through a bespoke immersive programme at Imperial College London. Under the PayNet x Imperial Catalyst Programme, 10 Malaysian fintechs are currently participating in a first-of-its-kind, 10-week curriculum tailored specifically for Hub founders.

    The programme offers hands-on exposure to global best practices, market insights and mentorship, while ensuring relevance to Malaysia’s fintech, regulatory and banking environment. Participants completed a week-long series of curated lectures and mentorship sessions at Imperial’s London campus, followed by nine weeks of virtual sessions focused on translating global learnings into Malaysian use cases. The programme will culminate in a Demo Day in March 2026, marking a significant step in preparing Malaysian fintechs to scale and compete on the global stage.

    As a not-for-profit initiative under PayNet, which serves as the backbone of Malaysia’s national payments infrastructure, the Fintech Hub reflects PayNet’s broader mission to enable secure, efficient and inclusive financial services for the rakyat. By applying this purpose to the fintech ecosystem, the Hub aims to strengthen the national fintech pipeline while supporting Malaysia’s long-term goals in digital finance and financial inclusion.

    For more information on the PayNet Fintech Hub, please visit: https://fintechhub.paynet.my/ 

  • FWD Insurance Berhad and Bank Simpanan Nasional Introduce Qaseh Setia, an Inclusive Insurance Plan Designed to Protect All Malaysians with a Special Focus on the B40 Community

    FWD Insurance Berhad and Bank Simpanan Nasional Introduce Qaseh Setia, an Inclusive Insurance Plan Designed to Protect All Malaysians with a Special Focus on the B40 Community

    Life’s uncertainties often bring financial worries, especially for vulnerable communities. Addressing this challenge, FWD Insurance Berhad (“FWD Insurance”) together with its longstanding bancassurance partner, Bank Simpanan Nasional (“BSN”), has introduced Qaseh Setia, an affordable microinsurance plan aimed at providing essential financial protection to all Malaysians, particularly those from the B40 income group. Since its launch in April 2025, Qaseh Setia has already touched the lives of over 20,000 Malaysians, reflecting growing trust and strong demand.

    For as little as RM0.20 a day, Qaseh Setia delivers meaningful coverage. The plan includes financial protection of up to RM90,000 for accidental death, RM15,000 for non-accidental death or total permanent disability, and up to RM3,000 to cover funeral expenses. This comprehensive support underscores FWD Insurance and BSN’s commitment to easing financial burdens during difficult times, ensuring families are not left without crucial assistance.

    Mak See Sen, Chief Executive Officer of FWD Insurance, described Qaseh Setia as more than just a policy: “It’s about empowering underserved communities with protection and peace of mind. Insurance should not be seen as a luxury but as a necessity that everyone deserves access to. With Qaseh Setia, we want Malaysians to live confidently, knowing their loved ones are protected when it matters most.”

    Echoing this sentiment, BSN’s Chief Executive, Jay Khairil, emphasized the bank’s mission of inclusivity: “Qaseh Setia represents our goal of ‘No Malaysian Left Behind.’ It is about providing affordable protection to safeguard families, especially those in the B40 community, from financial strain during life’s toughest challenges.”

    Accessibility remains at the heart of Qaseh Setia. With no medical check-up required upon enrolment, the process is simplified, removing one of the biggest hurdles for lower-income families and making insurance more approachable than ever.

    Adding to this initiative, FWD Insurance is also hosting the 2025 FWD Fiesta Campaign roadshow at Mytown Shopping Centre from 21 to 24 August 2025. The event aims to raise awareness of financial planning through interactive booths showcasing Qaseh Setia and Qaseh Bakti Plus, alongside free health checks for attendees. To create a community-focused experience, the roadshow also offers engaging activities, such as a sand art station for children, and exciting giveaways including a grand prize of a brand-new Proton X50.

    Through initiatives like Qaseh Setia and the FWD Fiesta, FWD Insurance continues to drive its vision of “Changing the way people feel about insurance”, transforming it into something simple, approachable, and essential for everyday Malaysians.